BAMENDA ROCKS 2! FASHION EXPLOSION

Bamenda’s rolling hills came alive as Christmas celebrations spilled over into style explosion, courtesy of Cameroon’s exciting new fashion pack.

The scene was Ayaba Hotel’s pool area. KiRette Couture (KC) led fashion houses, Rodrig Tchatcho, Syl Anim, Tia Mac Ren, Nuvi Designs and Dilisious Coucou in a mesmerising display of Cameroon-inspired chic.

On the front row were producer of BET’s Rip The Runway show, Aminah Benjamin, the North West Regional Delegate for Culture, Ernest Tchuinte and local business leader, Francis Yong.

At a glitzy pre-event session, VIPs mixed with designers and splashed out on exquisite, limited edition creations from their latest collections, while sampling fine wine bouquets.

Nuvi Designs opened the catwalk with a delightful assortment of wax print cuts. A Touch of showed off a colourful melange of vivid styles and urban cuts.

Men in cyclist shorts, a cute model in a hoodie and a fabulous new range of patterned sandals sprang out of Nigeria-based Syl Anim’s hip collection.

Up-and-coming trio Tia MacRen kept it fresh and youthful with trendy mini dresses. A futuristic key piece introduced the young brand’s daring side.

Douala resident, Rodrigue Ttchatcho’s versatility shone through casual creations and detailed evening/bridal gowns.

Dramatic, arty and evolutionary sum up KC’s unveiling of its Spring/Summer 2011 collection. Gorgeous, bikini clad models strutted uber trendy jackets adorned with bold prints, bright embroidery and patterned frills while richly textured evening gowns added an edge of sophistication to KC’s latest offering.

Another highlight was a vibrant embroidered piece from KC’s newly launched children’s range.

“What thrills me the most is the designers’ ability to revolutionise the traditional North West regalia. The concept of blending the toghu with modern chic not only distinguishes these creators but also gives the style a contemporary look that makes it accessible to people beyond Cameroon’s borders,” explained Ernest Tchuinte.

But fashionistas didn’t just indulge in vogue. Music from Hip-hopper, Valsero, R&B group, BAAM, African soul star Landry Njapa and pop act, Excel, kept their dancing shoes functional.

Proceeds from Bamenda Rocks 2! will benefit the Splash Networks International Cancer Community Care Awareness Programme.

Check out some of the pictures of the runway.

KiRette Couture

 

Tia-MacRen

 

Syl Anim

 

Dilisious Coucou

 

Rodrig Tchatcho

In an animated session, guests received gifts from event sponsor, Brasseries du Cameroun. Bamenda Rocks 2! was also supported by M&I Cyber Café, Guarantee Express and L’Alliance Franco-Camerounais and UK-based Marketing & PR company, Votre Avant Garde.

“We are eternally grateful to our sponsors and guests. They made the show happen,” noted KC co-founder and CEO, Kibonen Nfi.

“Bamenda Rocks 2! was a huge success! Let’s get ready for the next instalment,” enthused her partner, Anrette Ngafor.

On that note, roll on BR3!
Stay sweet
Dulce
xxx